Rajasthani Academy Organises 32nd Rajasthani Group Folk Dance Competition 2024
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Rajasthani Rhythms and Colors Enchant Delhi: A Celebration of Heritage and Talent
8th October 2024, Kamani Auditorium – The Rajasthani Academy successfully hosted the 32nd Rajasthani Group Folk Dance Competition 2024, on 8th October at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi. This cultural spectacle is a cornerstone of the Academy's annual calendar, offering a significant platform for over 10,000 talented students to showcase their rich cultural heritage and artistic talents.
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 18 schools from across Delhi/NCR and neighbouring states, making it a grand celebration of Rajasthani folk traditions. Shri Rajeev Kumar Aggarwal, representing Param Dairy, was honoured for his role as the event’s main presenter.
The distinguished Guests of Honour included H.E. Mr. Jagannath Sami, High Commissioner of Fiji, H.E. Ms. Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez, Ambassador of Venezuela, Dr. Rashmi Saluja, Chairperson of Religare & GTTCI, Lions 321-A1 District Governor N.K. Gupta, Padmashri Nalini Kamalini - Renowned Dance Maestro, Shri Subodh Goswami – DCP Delhi Police, Mr. Bassem Hellis - Embassy of Palestine, and Smt. Rama Pandey.
In his welcome address, Dr. Gaurav Gupta, President of Rajasthani Academy, reflected on the enduring legacy of this competition and paid tribute to its founder, Shri Ram Niwas Lakhotia, and Shri Subhash Lakhotia, whose vision continues to inspire the event. He also highlighted the prestigious Subhash Lakhotia Shrawan Kumar Puraskar, an award instituted in 2016 to recognize and honour individuals for their devotion to serving their parents, inspired by the legendary figure of Shrawan Kumar. This year marked the 8th edition of the award.
The competition was judged by an esteemed panel comprising Mrs. Deepali Sinha, Mrs. Pooja Gupta, Ms. Anita Aggarwal, and Ms. Shiphony Pavithran, all of whom brought their vast experience in dance and the arts to the event.
The Academy’s Secretary, Smt. Suman Maheshwari, captivated the audience with her poetic compering, enhancing the cultural ambiance of the event.
The competition concluded with Canterbury Public School, Yamuna Vihar winning the Shri Shanta Bai Memorial Trophy for First Prize. Arwachin Bharti Bhawan Sr. Sec. School secured the Chiranjilal Dhanuka Memorial Trophy for Second Prize, while JBM Global School took the Third Prize. In total, cash prizes amounting to ₹43,000 were awarded to winners up to the 7th position.
Other notable awards included The Rajat Memorial Trophy for Best Dress won by Greenways Modern School and The Subhash Lakhotia Memorial Award of ₹11,000 awarded to Little Flowers Public School, Vijaya Park.
Special appreciation was extended to the Reception Committee Members, including Shri Sushil Bihani, Shri Uma Shanker, Shri P.S. Dhingra, Shri Sandeep Goel, and Shri Ved Prakash for their efforts in ensuring the success of the event.
The cash prizes for 4th to 7th positions were generously sponsored by Shri C.L. Aggarwal, R.K. Aggarwal, M.L. Garg, and Smt. Sneh Kanodia.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 8th Subhash Lakhotia Shrawan Kumar Puraskar and a cash prize of ₹1,00,000 to Shri Vishal Chawla for his unwavering dedication to the service of parents. This prestigious award has been presented annually since 2016, recognizing individuals who embody the selfless devotion and care shown by Shrawan Kumar in ancient Indian folklore.
The event also celebrated the winners of the 10th Rajasthani Painting Competition, with the following students receiving 1st Prize: Rishika Chaudhary (Senior Category) – Little Flowers Public Sr. Sec. School, Yukti Sharma (Junior Category) – Little Flowers Public School, Yamuna Vihar, Naina Madan (Middle Category) – Global Indian International, Noida.
The event was supported by Bikanervala, Gem Mines, and Wondersoft as gift partners, and the stunning performances transported the audience to the vibrant cultural heart of Rajasthan. Ambassadors and diplomats in attendance praised the organisers for their dedication to promoting India’s cultural heritage.
